Is it time to move on to another role? Have you recently been laid off and not sure how to get started in your job search? Here's how to improve your chances of finding your dream job.
Getting started
Before you start applying for positions, take time to consider what you are looking for in a new role and the type of companies/employers you'd like to work for. This will help you narrow your search dramatically.
Set aside time every day to do your job searching – be patient and stay positive, the right job doesn't just fall in your lap.
Where to search?
These days, the best way to search for a job is via the Internet. You can search by location, industry, job category or even recruiters and employers. New advertisements are posted daily and you can apply online directly to lots of job ads. Be sure to sign up for weekly job alerts which bring the best positions straight to your inbox.
Lots of companies advertise positions through their own websites. Make a list of companies you’d like to work for and check out the recruitment section of their sites.
Recruitment agencies are a great source when it comes to finding a job. They can set you up with positions that match your skills and experience as well as help with interview preparation and job offer negotiatations. Most agencies advertise through job sites like
(www.seek.com.au).
Hidden job market
A large number of jobs on the market are not advertised and are only discovered through word of mouth, cold calling or sending in an unsolicited job application.
Use your networks to tap into the hidden market. Develop a list of contacts through friends, family or former co-workers. A lot of companies now offer incentives to staff for recommending a suitable candidate, so don’t be afraid to ask others to keep their eyes and ears open for you.
- Cold calling & unsolicited applications
One way to find yourself a new job might be to approach employers directly to express your interest in wanting to work for them. Do your research, prepare an Oscar-worthy speech or an outstanding letter, and make sure you make contact with the right person. This job hunting technique requires a lot of initiative, nerve and determination.
Be prepared
Above all else, job hunting's about being prepared. If you see the perfect job advertised, you have to be ready to apply ASAP. Being prepared means: having your resume updated and ready to send; knowing how to write five star cover letters; and what to do once you score an interview.
Your resume is a written representation of your career and what will ultimately get you a foot in the door. It should highlight your key skills, strengths and experience and be no more than two-to-three pages in length.
Start your resume with a short summary of who you are (often known as a capability statement) and include lots of positive, dynamic words like 'self-starter', 'strong team player' or 'excellent communicator'. Continue on with your key career achievements (provide four or five).
Then go on to highlight your education and work experience including responsibilities and achievements. Highlighting your achievements is vital as they illustrate how well you’ve carried out your responsibilities.
The CV should be clear and visually attractive. Do not include your age, a photo, or details regarding your marital status, children, religion or political affiliations. (Top resume mistakes)
A cover letter should only be a page long and should always be written to address how your experience/skills match those of the job description in question. Watch for grammar and spelling mistakes.
Once you get the call offering you an interview, it's time to start preparing. You need to do your research on the company as well as preparing yourself for the type of questions you'll be asked.
(Top interview mistakes)
Try to tee up suitable referees as early as you can in your job search. They will play a vital role in supporting you efforts to land your dream job.
Generally you will need to supply two referees, and ideal candidates are people who have directly supervised your work in previous roles and are able to provide comments on your skills and work performance. The more recently you have worked with your referees, the better. Always alert your referees to any position you have applied for if you think they will be contacted. Never let them be caught off-guard. (Choosing referees: dos and don'ts)
Other top tips
- Always customise your CV and cover letter to suit the position you’re applying for.
- Set aside time every day to centre on your job search.
- Always run your resume and cover letter through the spell checker.
- Make sure you spell individual and company names correctly on your application.
- Gather suitable referees early on in your job search.
Are you being paid what you’re worth? Take part in Seek’s salary survey and find out.
Tools and resources:
> Find your dream job > What are you worth? > Interview confidence boosters
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